comment

STRATFORD, Conn. — United Technologies has received final regulatory approval of its sale of Stratford-based Sikorsky Aircraft to Lockheed Martin, paving the way for a Friday closure of the deal, said U.S. Sen. Richard Blumenthal.

“Approval of Lockheed Martin’s acquisition of Sikorsky enabled their skilled and dedicated workforce to continue producing the world’s best helicopters," said Blumenthal (D-Conn.). "Sikorsky’s products are the gold standard—and will now be supported by an innovative company fully focused on defense that can invest in the Stratford plant, taking advantage of Connecticut’s unparalleled skilled and competitive workforce.”

Lockheed Martin, the largest U.S. defense contractor, is looking to grow its military helicopter business, the Courant said.

Sikorsky employs 8,000 in Connecticut and 15,000 worldwide. The headquarters and largest plant is in Stratford, with locations in Bridgeport, Trumbull and Shelton. The engineering office in Bridgeport is scheduled to close late next year, and its 450 workers will be moved to Stratford.

U.S. Sen. Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) praised the final approval.

"I look forward to working with Lockheed and the rest of the Connecticut delegation to bring more high-tech manufacturing and engineering jobs to Connecticut in the coming decades," Murphy said in a statement.